Back on the Rhine after five years: the Apollo Rhein Rondell celebrates its reopening

Vivian and Adrian Paul-Roncalli, the eldest children of Roncalli founder Bernhard Paul, joined theatre director Oliver Steier in symbolically cutting the red opening ribbon, thereby marking the official launch of the new outdoor dining area right on the banks of the Rhine. Together with friends of the venue, as well as colleagues from the variety theatre and circus, the reopening was celebrated in summery temperatures, with musical entertainment and a fantastic atmosphere.

The variety theatre’s sun terrace, situated right next to the State Parliament, now invites visitors to enjoy an after-work drink, a sundowner or a relaxing afternoon by the water. Over cool drinks, ice cream and light snacks, guests can once again enjoy one of the most beautiful views of the city and the river.

“We are delighted to be reopening one of the most beautiful spots on the Rhine,” says Oliver Steier, theatre director at Roncalli’s Apollo Varieté. “The terrace was already extremely popular with visitors in the past. With this reopening, we are creating a gastronomic link between the Kasematten and the Medienhafen.”

A particular eye-catcher on the sun terrace is the new nostalgic drinks trolley in the unmistakable Apollo design. The red van with black-and-white details echoes the characteristic design of the Apollo foyer, thereby creating a link to the variety theatre. Guests will be able to order their favourite drinks here in future. The van was designed and built with the kind support of the Schlösser Brewery.

“The Apollo Rhein Rondell is a special place that embodies the true Düsseldorf way of life. That’s why we’re delighted to be able to support the reopening with the new drinks trolley,” says Peter Kapfer, managing director of the Schlösser Brewery. “Together with the Apollo, we have created a design that captures the nostalgic charm of the variety theatre and also gives our Schlösser Alt a fitting place in this special setting on the Rhine. We wish the Apollo Rhein Rondell many enthusiastic guests and a successful fresh start.”

In dry weather, the Apollo Rhein Rondell’s opening hours follow those of the theatre. Guests are also very welcome during the Apollo’s summer break from 13 July to 13 August: Thursdays and Fridays from 5.00 pm to 10.00 pm, Saturdays from 2.00 pm to 10.00 pm. On Sundays, the team is on hand for guests from 12.00 pm to 7.00 pm.

“We’re looking forward to once again creating a place for socialising, enjoyment and special summer moments,” concludes Oliver Steier.

More about opening hours and the drinks menu

About Roncalli’s Apollo Varieté Founded in 1997 by Roncalli director Bernhard Paul, Roncalli’s Apollo Varieté, situated right in the heart of Düsseldorf, invites you on a fascinating journey through the world of variety theatre. In elaborately staged show productions that change every quarter, the “dream factory beneath the Rheinkniebrücke” presents a diverse mix of acrobatics, comedy and dance.

With 330 seats at tables in the stalls and 146 comfortable armchairs in the gallery, the Apollo is one of the largest and, at the same time, most beautiful variety theatres in Europe. Its exceptional location overlooking the Rhine promenade and Düsseldorf’s Old Town, its striking glass architecture, and the unique combination of live entertainment and fine dining have made the Apollo a truly special venue for almost 30 years.